Related Links

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- Authorities tell us they have found two bodies buried in the backyard of a Traskwood home.

The bodies have not been identified and they are being sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab.

A search warrant was conducted at the West Main Street home of a Traskwood woman Tuesday night in connection to the disappearance of Joe Lee Richards.

Authorities started digging at 8 a.m. Wednesday and they found the bodies at 9 a.m.

The home was searched Monday and authorities tell us the woman is a person of interest but is not under arrest so her name has not been released.

We do know Monday marked the first time the FBI came to Saline County to work this case alongside Benton police, the Saline County Sheriff's Office and the Arkansas State Crime Lab. Arkansas Game and Fish even provided some type of equipment needed for the investigation.

Richards has been missing for a year. As for Richard's family, his father is Benton Alderman Joe Lee Richards Sr.

He's actually in the hospital right now with pneumonia, but we did speak with him by phone Monday. He is aware of Monday's search and told me that his son had friends in Traskwood, but no one he could think that would do any harm to him.

No charges have been filled against the homeowner as of 5 p.m. Wednesday, but Lt. Russell did tell THV that charges are emanate in this case.